Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha today said that Divyangjan athletes are a shining example of courage, confidence, and an indomitable mentality for society, and that physical limitations can never be a barrier to talent or success.
Today, Dr. Saha made these remarks while inaugurating the Khelo Tripura Para Games-2025 with Divyangjan at the Badarghat Dashrath Dev Sports Complex.
The Chief Minister said that being Divyang is not a barrier. All that is needed is a strong mindset, an unwavering goal, and concentration.
“Regular practice helps an athlete reach his goal. Sports have no caste, religion, or color. Sports are one of the means of uniting us. Sports not only increase physical capabilities, but also develop mental strength, discipline, and self-respect. The participation of para athletes in this competition will play an important role in developing an inclusive mindset in society,” he said.
He said that the state government is committed to making the sports sector universal and inclusive through the 'Khelo Tripura' program, in line with the 'Khelo India' initiative announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“The state government has attached special importance to providing training facilities, suitable sports infrastructure, modern equipment, and financial support to para athletes,” said Dr. Saha.
Dr. Saha said that there is no place for politics in the current sports world of Tripura.
“Merit is the highest priority, which was not always noticed in the past. The current government knows how to value sports. It knows how to respect sportsmen. Critical situations come in everyone's life. The main thing is to overcome those situations and move forward. Therefore, physical limitations are not a problem,” he said.
He added that confidence and concentration in sports bring success, and that sports not only enhance physical and mental capabilities but also help athletes stay away from addiction.
During the event, Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Tinku Roy, MLA Mina Rani Sarkar, Secretary PK Chakraborty, Secretary Tapas Roy, Social Welfare and Social Education Department Director TK Das, Youth Affairs and Sports Department Director L Darlong, Padma Shri awardee gymnast Dipa Karmakar, and others were present.